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Vahn exhaled in relief. As ruler he could implement any plan he wanted without question, but having the support of one of the ruling clans would consolidate it.

“Thank you, my friend,” he said. “Ela, I think we can remove Kara’s handcuffs now.”

The general stood to attention.

“I know my opinion isn’t relevant here,” she said tartly, “But you seem to have overlooked one glaring detail.”

Vahn frowned.

“And what’s that?”

“The fact that there are currently twelve other females who’ve been chosen to compete for the honor of being your Zhaalini. Or had you forgotten aboutshaa’baara?”

Eight

Vahn blinked.

“What females?” he asked, mystified. Rhyn slapped his forehead.

“Drek! I meant to tell you but I forgot. A dozen noble families have put their daughters up as Potentials to be your mate. I accepted on your behalf. I thought you’d be pleased.”

“So just tell them they’re no longer required.”

“We cannot do that,” Baelon said with evident satisfaction. “To rejectshaa’baaranow after it has been accepted would be seen as a slight.”

“You wouldn’t be saying that because your niece happens to be one of the Potentials, would you?” asked Rhyn.

“That is irrelevant,” Baelon retorted. “Undermining one of our oldest customs is unwise, regardless of who is taking part.”

Kara listened mutely. She knew whatshaa’baarawas. A contest to win the right to be mated to a Vraxian male. And it didn’t surprise her that there was competition for Vahn. The Zhaal was a good catch.

Buttwelve?There weretwelvefemales throwing themselves at him? At least Vahn looked as disconcerted as she was.

“There must be a way out of it,” he said desperately. “Some loophole.”

“There is not,” said Ela. “The palace has promised a competition and we have to go through with it. We cannot afford to offend these families.”

Kara saw the expression on Vahn’s face.

“So what’s the problem?” she said impulsively. “Just put me into the competition.”

Ela laughed.

“I don’t think so, human. You wouldn’t last a second.”

Kara rounded on her angrily.

“I lasted the best part of a year on a deserted planet, bitch. I’m not about to be intimidated by some stuck-up tarts.”

“You don’t understand, Kara,” Vahn said gently. “The competition is intense. There are grueling physical and mental challenges, and the final round is unarmed combat.”

“Sweet Jesus. What the fuck kind of contestisthis?”

“One to ensure only the very best wins the heart of our Zhaal,” said Ela stonily.

“This is insanity,” spat Baelon. “Shaa’baarais only open to females from the highest status families. Leaving aside the fact that she is not Vraxian, she does not qualify.”

“Her mother is the defacto ruler of Earth,” said Vahn mildly. “In terms of status, she probably outranks you, Lord Vantrax.”